⚖️ What’s the Difference Between Handover and Acceptance?

Handover means the contractor presents the work to the client for inspection and use.

Acceptance means the client confirms that the work:

• meets the contract terms,

• has no obvious defects (or accepts them),

• is being taken over for further use.

This creates clarity – both parties know their rights and responsibilities.

🧱 Real Example: “I won’t sign anything now – maybe later…”

A contractor finished building a wooden deck. The client refused to sign the handover protocol. “Let’s wait and see how it settles.”
Two months later, the client claimed the deck was slippery and dangerous. Without the signed protocol, the contractor couldn’t prove when the work was handed over – and lost the case.

📌 How to Do It Right?

• Always use a written handover protocol – signed by both parties.

• List any visible defects and how they’ll be fixed.

• Include the handover date – it triggers the warranty.

• Attach photos, documentation, manuals, etc.

• Remember: handover doesn’t end liability, but strengthens your position.

Without documentation, legal claims become a guessing game – and you might lose.